First Color

First Color

8" x 10", pastel

Here is one of the paintings, I have been working on these past weeks. Really liked the sunshine on the bushes, contrasted with the shadows. And, of course, the turning leaves of the trees. Can't wait for the weather to allow for these changes this year!

Hill Country Spring

Hill Country Spring

8" x 10", pastel

The colors of the trees would have you believe that this is a fall setting, but it isn't so. Live oaks have a yellow-orange tinge when they lose their leaves and new ones are bursting forth. Add in the orange of the huisache trees in bloom, and it is fall, except, that the bluebonnets were beautiful! The photo reference for the painting is a couple of years old. The bluebonnets were just as prolific this year as they were then.

Autumn Repose

Autumn Repose

8" x 10", pastel

This little painting is one of two that was accepted into the Austin Pastel Society Juried Member Exhibition. It was judged by Marla Baggetta. Had the pleasure of taking a workshop given by her this past weekend. It was awesome.  

Marla gave a demo on Friday night prior to the workshop. While I was sitting there waiting for the demo to begin, she called my name (we had name tags on!). She continued on to tell me how she liked the entries in the show especially this little landscape. My mouth gaped I am sure, but I immediately thanked her for the kind words. I asked her on Sunday, if she had time, if she would share with me what she liked about it. Landscapes are a tough subject for me. so I wanted to know how to better handle my next attempt. Sadly, there just wasn't the opportunity. But it was a wonderful experience and I learned so much.

K-9 Kruisin'

K-9 Kruisin'

8" x 10", pastel
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When I pulled up behind this scene at a stop light, I was so hoping I could snap a photo before the light changed. This dog was so intent on the guy in the mirror. I felt he was trying to 'will' the guy to let him in the cab.

Occasionally, there will be a painting that just falls into place, 'paints itself' so to speak. This was one of those. Hadn't painted in awhile when I decided to give this one a try. It came together without major issues. The hardest part was coming up with a title!

Blue Skies

Blue Skies

8 x 10, pastel

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Just returned from my first IAPS convention, what a wonderful week of learning and fellowship. So many prestigious artists sharing their vast knowledge of the pastel medium. I took a demo or workshop every day. This is a painting was started in a workshop instructed by Stan Sperlak, learned so much from each artist. 

The reference photo for the painting was taken on the first sunny day following a week of rain and destruction in Texas. It was so good to see billowing clouds against that blue sky.

Evening Storm

Evening Storm

8 x 10, Pastel
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I have been told that it is important to paint a number of paintings in the same theme. Have had a real challenge in deciding what that 'theme' would be. I love painting everything, particularly animals and people. However, paintings of people are rarely purchased and while that isn't the sole purpose of my painting, I would like to support my painting habit!!!

So considering painting skies, here is #2. Thinking that the photo for this painting was taken in the panhandle, big sky country!

More Biltmore

Autumn Stroll

8 x 10, pastel

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Here is the original painting that I took Strolling at the Biltmore from (split participle there, I believe!) Really like this painting, too, but Rita was correct about the other being more intimate. I am so blessed to be able to have Rita Kirkman as a friend. I have learned so much from her.

This Saturday is Market Days at the CRRC on Mabel Dr. just below Canyon Dam. The other times I have participated I have felt like I did not have enough paintings to hang----not so this time!!  There will be live music, food and numerous booths to explore. Hope you can drop by and visit with me.

Serenity

Serenity

8 x 10, pastel

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This is a painting of the pond and water feature at my brother and sister-in-law's home. It is so relaxing to sit and enjoy the sound of water trickling, sort of serene. 

It was a challenge to create the the image of water both flowing and as a flat surface. Always good to challenge yourself.